The Kosters, a family of four, made a significant life change in 2024 by relocating from the bustling cityscape of Salt Lake City to the tranquil town of Justin, Texas. This small north Texas town, home to just over 6,000 residents, is situated about 40 minutes north of Fort Worth. The decision to move was driven by a desire for a slower pace of life and a more stable work schedule for Lance Koster, a 61-year-old pilot instructor.
Lance Koster’s career as a pilot had taken his family across the country, but after 14 years in Salt Lake City, the demands of his job were becoming increasingly challenging. “I was spending a lot of time away from home,” Lance explained. “My wife and I are getting a little older, and I was ready to slow down.” This led him to pursue a position as a pilot instructor, offering a more predictable schedule and the opportunity to settle in Texas, a state they had always admired.
Settling in a Growing Community
In June 2024, Lance secured a job at a company located at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, and by September, the Kosters had purchased a home in Justin. Despite its small size, Justin is experiencing rapid growth, which has been both exciting and challenging for long-time residents.
“A lot of people who live in Justin have lived and worked here their whole lives, so it’s actually a little uncomfortable for them that it’s growing at such a rapid pace,” Lance noted. Nevertheless, the Kosters have found the community welcoming and have enjoyed their experiences so far.
Their new home, a spacious 3,500 square feet with five bedrooms, is part of a new neighborhood developed by KB Homes. The family also purchased a smaller home nearby for Michelle’s mother, ensuring she remains close while maintaining her independence.
Adapting to a New Lifestyle
Transitioning from the vibrant Salt Lake Valley, with its nearly 2 million residents, to the quieter Justin has been a significant change for the Kosters. “Life is a lot slower in Justin,” Lance observed. The town’s modest downtown area includes a small grocery store and a couple of restaurants, with more extensive shopping options requiring a drive toward Fort Worth.
Their younger son has adjusted well, even securing a job at the local grocery store. However, the older son has taken more time to adapt. The cultural shift has been notable, with Justin’s diversity contrasting with Utah’s large Mormon population, which sometimes left the Kosters feeling excluded.
“The weather is a lot different in Texas, too,” Lance remarked. “Salt Lake City was a lot cooler, and while it does get warm in the summer, it’s nowhere close to how hot it gets in Justin.”
To combat the Texas heat, the family recently completed the construction of a backyard pool, creating a personal oasis for cooling off.
Financial and Social Considerations
Michelle Koster highlighted the financial differences between Utah and Texas, particularly the absence of state income tax in Texas, offset by higher property taxes. “Our house in Salt Lake City was 1,000 square feet larger than our home in Justin, but our property taxes here are three times the amount,” she explained.
The geographical spread of Texas has also been an adjustment, with longer travel times to reach major cities like Dallas. Despite these challenges, the Kosters have embraced their new surroundings and have started to build a social network, hosting gatherings and forming new friendships.
Looking Forward
While the family misses the majestic mountains and close-knit friendships of Salt Lake City, they have no plans to return. “We’ve accepted our new home, and the locals have accepted us, too,” Michelle shared. The Kosters have found happiness in their new environment, enjoying the slower pace and the opportunities it presents.
Their story reflects a broader trend of families seeking a balance between career demands and quality of life, choosing smaller communities that offer both tranquility and growth potential. As Justin continues to evolve, the Kosters are poised to be a part of its unfolding story.
